Effective communication is vital when caring for a family member with dementia. Clear, compassionate, and respectful communication can help you better understand and respond to their needs, fostering a supportive and comforting environment. Home Instead is here to guide you through techniques for improving communication and using person-centred language to enhance your caregiving experience.
Techniques for Improving Communication with Seniors with Dementia
1. Speak Clearly and Calmly:
Use simple, straightforward language and speak slowly. Avoid raising your voice, as this can cause confusion and anxiety.
Example: Instead of saying, “Do you want to take your medicine now or later?” say, “It’s time for your medicine. Would you like it now?”
2. Use Non-Verbal Cues:
Body language, facial expressions, and gestures can help convey your message when words are difficult to understand.
Example: Smile and make eye contact to show warmth and openness. Use hand gestures to guide your loved one’s actions.
3. Be Patient and Give Time:
Allow extra time for your family member to process information and respond. Avoid interrupting or rushing them.
Example: If your relative struggles to find words, patiently wait and encourage them without finishing sentences.
4. Avoid Negative Language:
To reduce anxiety and resistance, frame your statements positively.
Example: Instead of saying, “Don’t go outside,” say, “Let’s stay inside where it’s warm and comfortable.”
5. Break Down Tasks:
Simplify tasks into smaller, manageable steps and provide instructions one step at a time.
Example: When helping with dressing, say, “First, put on your shirt,” then, “Now, let’s put on your pants,” instead of overwhelming them with multiple instructions at once.
6. Validate Their Feelings:
Acknowledge your family member’s emotions and reassure them that their feelings are valid.
Example: If they express frustration, say, “I understand you’re feeling frustrated. Let’s work on this together.”
7. Use Distraction Techniques:
When faced with agitation or distress, gently redirect their attention to a different activity or topic.
Example: If your family member is upset about a missed appointment, suggest a favourite activity: “Let’s look at the photo album together.”
How to Use Person-Centred Language
1. Emphasize Personhood:
Always place the individual before their condition. This reinforces their identity and dignity.
Example: Use “person living with dementia” instead of “demented person.”
2. Be Specific and Descriptive:
Describe behaviours and needs clearly and without judgment to provide better understanding and care.
Example: Say, “Jane seems anxious in crowded places,” rather than labelling her as “difficult.”
3. Avoid Labels:
Avoid terms that reduce your family members to their condition. Focus on their strengths and abilities.
Example: Instead of “John is a wanderer,” say, “John sometimes loses his way.”
4. Use Respectful Titles:
Address your family members using their preferred names and titles, showing respect for their identity.
Example: If they prefer being called “Mr. Smith” or “John,” honour that preference.
5. Foster Inclusion and Participation:
Encourage involvement in activities and decision-making processes, reinforcing their sense of autonomy.
Example: Say, “Would you like to join us for a walk?” rather than deciding for them.
Practical Tips for Implementing Person-Centred Language
Create a Supportive Environment:
Use positive, person-centred language to foster a supportive atmosphere where your family member feels valued and understood.
Example: When discussing daily activities, ask for their input: “What would you like to do today?”
Encourage Independence:
Frame instructions and tasks in a way that promotes independence and self-esteem.
Example: Instead of saying, “Let me do that for you,” say, “How can I help you with this?”
Provide Reassurance:
Use language that comforts and reassures your family member, reducing anxiety and building trust.
Example: If they express worry, respond, “I’m here with you, and we’ll figure this out together.”
How Home Instead Can Help
Home Instead is dedicated to promoting effective communication and person-centred care for seniors with dementia. Our services include:
- Personalized Care Plans: Develop care plans emphasizing respectful and positive communication tailored to your family member’s needs.
- Professional Training: Our caregivers are trained in effective communication techniques and person-centred language.
- Companionship Services: Providing supportive companionship that enhances communication and builds strong relationships.
- Resource Access: Connecting you with educational resources and community support to help you adopt effective communication practices.
Integrating these communication strategies and person-centred language into your daily interactions can significantly improve the quality of life for your family member with dementia. Home Instead is here to support you every step of the way.
Works Cited
Alzheimer Society of Canada. Person-Centred Language Guidelines. Alzheimer Society of Canada, 2017.
